July 6 Special Election Set For Ward 5 Seat In West Warwick

WEST WARWICK, RI — Potential candidates for an open Ward 5 Town Council seat in West Warwick are reminded that they must formally declare their candidacy on Thursday or Friday in order to see their names on the ballot.

A July 6 special election has been set, with a June 8 special primary election scheduled, Rhode Island Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea has announced.

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The West Warwick seat is open because former Ward 5 councilor John F. D'Amico, a Democrat, resigned effective April 2. D'Amico stepped down because he was moving, said Town Council Clerk Sarah Rapose. Those who wish to declare their candidacy must file papers in person at West Warwick Town Hall at 1170 Main St. on April 29 or April 30.

Secretary Gorbea issued the following schedule for the June 8 special primary:

April 27: Deadline to request a braille/tactile ballot
April 29 and 30: Declaration of candidacy period
May 9: Deadline to register to vote or update voter record for primary
May 18: Mail ballot application deadline for primary
May 19 to June 7: Early in-person voting period for primary
June 8: PRIMARY

Gorbea issued the following schedule for the July 6 special election:

May 24: Deadline to request a braille/tactile ballot
June 6: Deadline to register to vote or update voter record
June 15: Mail ballot application deadline
June 16 to July 5: Early in-person voting period FOR WEST WARWICK
July 6: ELECTION

“City and town council members make decisions that affect education, the local economy, and overall quality of life in their community. If you feel you can be a voice for your community, run for office by filing a declaration of candidacy on April 29 or 30th,” said Gorbea.

Gorbea said eligible residents will have three safe and secure options for casting their ballot in these special elections: voting from home with a mail ballot, voting early in-person at city hall, or voting at the polls.